MAPUSA: Albert Princesses scored a narrow 1-0 win over Flaming Oranje in the inaugural match of the Vedanta Women’s Football League, in association with Goa Football Association, played at Duler Stadium, Mapusa, on Saturday.
The initial stages of the match saw both teams restricting to midfield battle, but Albert Princesses showed their dominance in the first half of play. Captain Scindia stood rock solid in the defence for the Princesses thwarting every move which was initiated by the Flaming Oranje team. Scindia was equally supported by the midfield which consisted of Anushka and Leena.
Albert Princesses had the best chance to take the lead in the opening quarter, when Marlat rounded off the keeper with a smart move only to see her weak short clear off the line by Stessi. Flaming Oranje struggled upfront as their strikers just couldn’t get past the resolute Albert Princesses’ defence line.
The second half was no different as Albert Princesses continued from where they had left off. Marlat worked tirelessly upfront supported by Anika, but Flaming Oranje defence led by their captain rescued their side from more misery.
Flaming Oranje keeper Ashika Gadekar was tested on a couple of occasions but she dealt the danger with ease.
With Stessi surging ahead and supporting the strikers, Flaming Oranje’s attack created more opportunities but it was too late as Albert Princesses defended to take home vital three points.
“We are happy with the win and the way the team played tonight. They showed a great team effort on the field. Moreover they implemented whatever we had practiced during the training,” said Albert Princesses coach Shawyn Fernandes
Despite a narrow 0-1 defeat, Flaming Oranje coach Shekar Kerkar said he would take the positives from the game and try to recover for the next match.
“The girls gave their best. But they need to gel up well. Our strike force needs to be more compact,” Shekar said.
